The Edmonton Oilers have made a notable acquisition by trading for veteran defenseman Connor Murphy from the Chicago Blackhawks. The deal, reported by Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, involves the Oilers sending a second-round draft pick to Chicago, specifically from the 2028 draft. In this transaction, the Blackhawks will retain 50% of Murphy’s salary cap hit, which amounts to $2.2 million of his $4.4 million average annual value.
Trade Details
- Player Acquired: Connor Murphy (D)
- Team Trading: Chicago Blackhawks
- Draft Pick Sent: 2028 2nd Round Pick
- Salary Retained: 50% of $4.4 million ($2.2 million)
Murphy, 32, has been a crucial part of the Blackhawks’ defense since joining the team from the Arizona Coyotes in the summer of 2017. This season, he has participated in 60 games, averaging 16:34 minutes of ice time per game. During this time, he has contributed 13 points, scoring four goals and assisting on nine others.
Career Statistics
- Drafted: 1st round, 20th overall in 2011 NHL Draft
- Career Points: 173 points (47 goals, 126 assists)
- Total Games Played: 805 regular season games
With Edmonton’s defense struggling this season, Murphy’s arrival comes at a necessary time. The Oilers currently rank 18th in the NHL in expected goals against per 60 minutes, with a rate of 2.69. This has put significant stress on the team’s chances of making the playoffs, especially considering their current record of 29-24-8.
Impact on the Oilers
Murphy’s addition is expected to bolster Edmonton’s defensive lineup, which presently consists of six defensemen: Evan Bouchard, Darnell Nurse, Mattias Ekholm, Jake Walman, Ty Emberson, and Spencer Stastney. His experience will not only enhance their overall defensive play but should also improve the power play unit.
Interestingly, despite poor performance from the Blackhawks’ defense overall, Murphy has maintained impressive statistics. He has the lowest expected goals against rate among Chicago’s regular defensemen, sitting at just 2.37 expected goals against per 60 minutes during 5-on-5 play. Additionally, his experience on the penalty kill—an area where the Oilers have struggled—should provide immediate benefits.
General Manager Stan Bowman has recognized the pressing need for improvement this season. Earlier attempts, such as trading goalie Stuart Skinner for Tristan Jarry, have not yielded the expected results. As the Oilers navigate a challenging season, the acquisition of Connor Murphy may prove pivotal for revitalizing their playoff hopes.
